Brilliant... "the sky barks and claps"... I adore that

Dare I say that I think this... cute? Not in the schmaltzy manner of the 'contradictory portraits' you mention, but effervescent still in that rush of goodwill that comes with good times. I like the mention of the storm in the background - it adds a little something weighty to the proceedings.

Great poem! I love the first two lines and the title.